Fort Vermilion, Alberta

Fort Vermilion is a Hamlet located approximately 78 km southeast of High Level. It is the oldest settlement in Alberta and was established in 1788 as a post for the North West Company located on the banks of the Mighty Peace River. Today Fort Vermilion serves an urban and rural population of about 2500 and has a population of 753 (2021 statistics) with 257 occupied dwellings compared to a population of 727 in 2011. (661 km northwest of Edmonton, Alberta.)

Fort Vermilion Sign- more info

Clark House - more info

Bourassa/St Germain - more info

Trappers Shack - more info
There are over 25 historical sites and buildings to view in Fort Vermilion including the St Lukes Anglican Church Cemetery that dates back to 1877. It has a marble memorial and fieldstone fence. Also located in the same area is the Bay Factor's House and Cookhouse.


Where It Began - more info

(Archived) Golf Clubhouse - more info


Campground - more info

Old Bay House - more info



HISTORY OF FORT VERMILION, ALBERTA

The name Vermilion comes from the red ochre deposits along the riverbanks in the area. Cree and Beaver Indians were the first to inhabit the area and was a meeting place for northern natives. The fur traders came and shortly after in 1788 the Fort Vermilion trading post was established at Boyer's Post 5 miles downstream from Fort Vermilion. In 1821 Fort Vermilion was taken over by the Hudson's Bay company and about 10 years later, the post was moved to the present location of Fort Vermilion. The old Bay House was built in 1906 near Fort Vermilion near the riverbank. It was where the Chief Factor lived. He was the one who organized the operations of the company. In 1907 Fort Vermilion experimental Farm was established and moved to its current site in 1935.

The bridge across the Peace RIver was built in 1974. Before then a ferry was used to cross the river.


In July 30th 1988, Fort Vermilion celebrated its Bicentennial and visitors for the celebration included the Prime Minister of Canada, Brian Mulroney and family.

MARA - Mackenzie Applied Research Association in Fort Vermilion: VIEW PHOTO INFO PICTURE

There is a boat launch and peer with access to the Peace River located along River Road, Fort Vermilion. There are many rivers and streams in the area that are good for fishing. Mostly walleye, pike and grayling are the catch of the day.

ANOTHER PHOTO: View of the River while crossing the bridge: VIEW PHOTO

Special Events:
Rodeo held in July with bucking broncos, cattle roping etc. at the Rodeo Grounds located about 5 km southwest of the Hamlet. Bareback local bronc rider Kenton Randle was one of the riders who represented Canada in the 2002 Olympics in Salt Lake City, USA. Canada Day Celebrations are held with many events, activities including a parade. The Town "n" Country Fair and River Daze has been held in early August. Get to know you night, held in September and October. Arts and Crafts Show is held in November. Curling Bonspiels and Hockey Games are held from December to March.


NOW POSTED Events of the Peace Country

Cultural Complex - more info


Provincial Court - more info

Community Library - more info


Fort Vermilion Airport - more info



Residential area in Fort Vermilion.


Fort Vermilion Legion: VIEW PHOTO
Fort Vermilion Post Office: VIEW PHOTO
Fort Vermilion Seniors - Fort Pioneer Homes: VIEW PHOTO





Fort Vermilion Public School. Grades 7 to 12. Approximately 150 students attend. (780) 927-3706. School website
St. Mary's Elementary School. K to 6. (780) 927-3201. School website
Blumenort Mennonite school. (780) 927-3113.
Northern Lakes College, Fort Vermilion Campus. (780) 927-2450.
Northern Lakes College, Fort Vermilion Campus. (780) 927-2450.


PHOTO: Fort Vermilion School Divisions No. 52. 5213-River Road, Fort Vermilion. website.


RCMP Detachment - more info


Health Centre - more info


Hospital - more info

Firehall - more info

Mackenzie County - more info


Churches - more info


Cemetery (Fieldstone) - more info

Cemetery (Marble) - more info

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